Travel Information for Luxury Tours of the Indian State of Andhra Pradesh Andhra Pradesh India’s eighth largest state geographically, Andhra Pradesh is a thrilling locale filled with natural splendors, ancient monuments, and thriving cities. The state capital, Hyderabad, is nicknamed “The City of Pearls,” and dates back to the late 16th century. The center of town is marked by the stunning Charminar monument, a gateway building with four arches, towers, and a mosque on the second floor. Built in 1591 to commemorate the founding of the city, the Charminar quickly became one of India’s most iconic buildings. The area around the towering structure is the bustling heart of a modern city where thriving open-air markets offer every imaginable good. The local cuisine, named Telugu after the region’s original inhabitants, is known for its tangy blend of hot and spicy tastes. More than 600 miles of coastline and numerous mountain ranges hide a plethora of Buddhist, Hindu, and Muslim historical sites. The Buddhist and Hindu temples see thousands of pilgrims visiting every year in the search for religious enlightenment. The state’s varying topography shelters diverse populations of animals and plants.

Wildlife sanctuaries like the Nagarjunsagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve are wonderful places to spot incredibly rare and endangered species like the Bengal Tiger, Indian Leopard, and Mugger Crocodile in their natural settings. Andhra Pradesh Cities Capital City of Andhra Pradesh Capital City of Andhra Pradesh About Capital City of Andhra Pradesh The city of Hyderabad is the capital city of the state of Andhra Pradesh in India. This capital city is famously called the "City of Pearls" as in the earlier days, the place used to be the international trading hub of pearls and diamonds. The city is even home to Tollywood, the Telugu Film Industry. Established in the year 1591 A. D., this city is located on the Deccan Plateau on the river bank of the River Musi. Its position near the meeting point of north India and south India, the city is known for its distinctive art, culture as well as architecture. Demographics of Andhra Pradesh Capital City Spread over a total area of around 650 sq. km., this is among the largest Indian metropolitans and 4th populous most city in the country.

According to the Census, 2011, following are some of the basic demographic information about this capital city: Total population: 6, 809, 970 Metropolitan population: 7, 749, 334 Official languages: Telugu and Urdu Tourist Places in Andhra Pradesh’s Capital City Hyderabad city, being a land of historical sites, includes different places of interest. However, almost all the historical attractions are based in the old Hyderabad city. Tourist Attractions in Old Hyderabad City To name a few of the tourist attractions in and around the old city are: Charminar: Constructed near the spot, where Quli Qutb Shah prayed for the end of the epidemic caused by plague, this architectural construction is featured with 4 minarets. Rising to a height of about 48.7 m from the level of the ground, this place has always been an icon of the Capital City of Andhra Pradesh. It even includes a mosque. Chowmahalla Palace: This is one of the Asia Pacific Heritage sites of U. N. E. S. C. O. (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization).

Earlier, it was the seat of the dynasty of Asaf Jahi. Falaknuma Palace: Built in the year 1872 by Nawab Viqar – al - Umra, this palace reflects stunning architectural style. Being the most opulent palaces of the Nizam's, the impressive interior of this palace is featured with the Florentine sculptors’ works as well as a dining table with 100 seats. Golconda Fort: This historical fort was once the Qutb Shahi dynasty’s capital. After sunset every day, a "light and sound" show is held there that portrays the history of the fort. Mecca Masjid: This is one of the oldest and biggest mosques of this city. This granite built mosque has got a main hall that is 75 ft. high, 180 ft. long and 220 ft. wide. The hall is capable of accommodating approximately 10, 000 people at a time. Qutb Shahi Tombs: These tombs were named so as they were constructed by the Qutb Shahi dynasty. It is situated at a distance of around 1 km towards the north of the Golconda Fort.

H. E. H. The Nizam's Museum: Based within the Purani Haveli, this museum is famous for housing the longest wardrobe in the world, which used to belong to Mahbub Ali Pasha, who was known for not wearing the same clothes twice. Apart from all these, some of the other places to see in the old city of Hyderabad are as follows: Hussain Shah Wali Dargah Toli Masjid Tourist Attractions in New Hyderabad City Listed below are some of the renowned tourist spots in and around the newly formed city: A. P. State Museum: This museum of the Andhra Pradesh displays an array of artifacts that dates back to the period in between the 1st Century and the 20th Century. Few of those articles include Lotus Medallion, wonderful Kalankari works, Jain statues and sculptures and many more. Birla Mandir: This is among the best marble temples, which are built by the Birlas in the different cities of the nation. Located on the Naubat Mountain, this sparkling white clean temple is dedicated to Lord Venkateshwara. B. M.

Birla Planetarium and Science and Technological Museum: Many shows that last for around 35 mins are held in the Telugu as well as the Hindi language per day in the planetarium. On the other hand, the museum has got a Dinosaurium, which houses a dinosaur skeleton that was discovered in 1988 in the Yemanapalli village. Kala Bhavan: This is an art gallery, which is located at Ravindra Bharathi complex in Saifabad. To name a few more tourist places in the new Hyderabad city are: Archival Museum Hyderabad Hyderabad View all photos Hyderabad, the city of Nizams and the city of Pearls was once known as Bhagya Nagaram. It is the capital city of the Indian state of Telangana. Hyderabad is known for its rich history, culture and architecture representing its unique character as a meeting point for North and South India. Hyderabad is today one of the fast developing cities in the country and a modern hub of IT, ITES and Biotechnology. The city is home to the world's largest film studio, the Ramoji Film City as well as the second largest film industry in the country, the Telugu Film Industry popularly known as Tollywood.

Hyderabadi cuisine which is a blend of Mughlai cuisine and Persian cuisine is also popular. Hyderabad and Secunderabad are twin cities. Sightseeing & Activities in Hyderabad: Sightseeing includes Mecca Masjid, Birla Mandir, Charminar, Chowmah alla Palace, Falaknuma Palace, Golconda Fort, Hussain Sagar, NTR Gardens, Necklace Road, Sanjeevaiah Park, Nehru Zoological Park, Ramoji Film City, Salarjung Museum, Shilparamam, Qutub Shahi Tombs, etc., Activities include shopping for pearls, shopping for bangles in old city, visit to Ramoji film city, Tasting Hyderbadi Biryani and a movie at IMAX Theatre. How to reach Hyderabad: By Air: Rajiv Gandhi International Airport in Hyderbad is well connected to all important destinations, both domestically and internationally. By Train: Being the headquarter of South Central Railway, Hyderabad is well connected from all major cities of India. Major stations for outstation trains are Secunderabad, Kachiguda & Hyderabad Deccan.

By Road: Hyderabad being Capital city is well connected by Road from all major cities in Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Maharastra and Orissa. Distances from major cities are Bangalore (560 km), Chennai (690 km), Hubli (560 km), Pune (550 km), Tirupati (590 km), Muimbai (711 km), Vijayawada (270 km) and Vishakhapatnam (650 km). Climate & Best Season to visit Hyderabad: Hyderabad has a wet and dry climate with hot summers from late February to early June, the monsoon season from late June to early October and a pleasant winter from late October to early February. In the evenings and mornings the climate is generally cooler because of the city's good elevation. The maximum temperature is 430 C and minimum temperature is 130 C. Best time to visit Hyderabad is from October to March.

Hyderabad India- Hyderabad Andhra Pradesh, Hyderabad City, Hyderabad Guide, Hyderabad Location Location: Hyderabad District, Andhra Pradesh Climate: Summers: 400C (Maximum), 220C (Minimum) Winters: 220C (Maximum), 140C (Minimum) Best Time to Visit: October to March Nearest Airport: Rajiv Gandhi International Airport Nearest Railhead: Secunderabad Railway Station Must Visits: Char Minar, Golconda Fort, Qutbshahi Tomb, Mecca Masjid, Osmania University and HITEC City Language Spoken: Urdu, Hindi, Telugu and English. STD Code: 040 Hyderabad, also known as the City of Pearls, is the capital city of the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh in South India. Sited on the banks of River Musi, this prominent city is sprawling over an area of 217 square kilometers on the Deccan plateau. It is located on an average elevation of 536 m above the sea level and thus has a tropical wet and dry climate.

It has hot summers (late February- June, soothing winters (late October- early February) and pleasant monsoons (late June-Early October) with an average annual rainfall of 810 mm. As such, the ideal time to visit the city is from the month of October to March. Hyderabad city has gradually evolved as one of the major hubs for Information Technology (IT) in India, and thus is sometimes referred with an additional sobriquet �Cyberabad�. Hyderabad is considered to be the financial, economic and political capital of the state of Andhra Pradesh. According to the archeological excavations, this region of Hyderabad city was ruled by Kakatiyas over 1000 years ago. However, Hyderabad city was founded by Sulthan Mohammed Quli Qutub Shah who was the 5th King of the Qutub Shah dynasty in 1590 A.D. at Golconda Kingdom. At that time, this city was known as Bhagyanagar. In the year 1687, it was conquered by Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb and ruled by his governor until 1724.

Later, it was taken over by the Asaf Jahi dynasty, which named it Hyderabad State and ruled it till a year after Indian Independence from Britain. Thereafter, Hyderabad was taken charge of by the successors who were called as Nizams of Hyderabad. The rule of the seven Nizams witnessed the cultural and economical growth of the city. Hyderabad city has steadily become an eminent industrial city for being the best destination for various biotechnology companies, pharmaceutical firms, BPO industries and many more to count. It is also the home to the Telugu Film Industry (Tollywood) and the most expensive residential real estates in Andhra Pradesh, Banjara Hills and Jubilee Hills. Char Minar, Golconda Fort, Qutbshahi Tomb, Mecca Masjid, Birla Mandir, Ujjaini Mahankali Temple, Hussain Sagar Lake, Osmania University and HITEC City are few of the prominent tourist attractions that you should definitely explore, whilst in the city.

And if you are in love with shopping then, Laad Bazar (bangles market) and Sultan Bazaar are just perfect for you to get various products like silverware, saris, kalamkari paintings and artifacts, unique Bidri handcrafted items, lacquer bangles studded with stones, silk ware, cotton ware and handloom-based clothing materials. Best Time To Visit Hyderabad Hyderabad has always a large number of tourist groups congregating around the city all through the year. The princely city of Hyderabad has a host of options for sightseeing and is apparently one of the best places to experience the real South India culture and Mughal grandeur. Gardens In Hyderabad Hyderabad is one of the hottest tourist destinations in India. Being the capital city of Andhra Pradesh, it is one of the cities that boast of a number of tourist attractions, monuments, museums, amusements parks, eco-friendly gardens, sanctum sanctorum and more. History Of Hyderabad The land of luminescent architecture and affluent literature - Hyderabad is truly like a bead of pearl in the beautiful string of the city�s legacy. The royal past and rich heritage of the territory has made Hyderabad the most intriguing city of the country.

With nearly 400 years of glorious history to boast of, How To Reach Hyderabad With its majestic past, glorious monuments and rich traditions Hyderabad tots up as a spectacular land, which offers the best tourism in the country. On your visit to the �City of Pearls� don�t forget to visit the centuries old mosques, minarets, and other architectural heritage that poses as the real pride of the city. Hyderabad Food Hyderabad, the city of Nawabs, minarets and pearls, is hugely admired for its sophisticated, spicy and absolutely scrumptious cuisines. Like any other historical city, the food of Hyderabad blends royal zest with regional tang and delivers a mouth-watering potpourri of Andhra specialties and Hyderabadi cuisines, Hyderabad Map | Map of Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh Telugu, Urdu Speaking People, Marathi, Kannada etc.

Points of Interest Charminar, Golkonda, Snow World, Salar Jung Museum, Nehru Zoological Park, Hussain Sagar, Mecca Masjid, Chowmahalla Palace, Chilkur Balaji Temple, Birla Mandir, Osman Sagar, Ramoji Film City Demonym Hyderabadi Hyderabad, the capital city of Andhra Pradesh is located on the Deccan Plateau and is almost 500 years old. Besides being the capital city, it is also noted for being the largest city of Andhra Pradesh. Sprawled across 650 square kilometers, Hyderabad records an approximate population of 6.8 million people. Today, the city is home to innumerable government buildings and important landmarks. Besides, Hyderabad also houses various software companies and BPOs, thereby making it one of the prime IT hubs of India. Geography : Situated 1,607 feet above the sea level; Hyderabad lies to the north-west of Andhra Pradesh. This makes the city easily accessible from both the South and North Indian states. The city is blessed with some amazing rock formations which are almost 2500 million years old.

The soil type of the city is chiefly red sandy; however in some areas you can also find black cotton soil. How to reach (transport) : Rajiv Gandhi International Terminal (Hyderabad International Airport) is well connected to the major destinations abroad. Besides, the domestic airport (N.T. Rama Rao domestic Terminal) operates flights to the prominent cities in India. Both these airports are located approximately 20 kilometers from the city’s center. The Hyderabad Deccan Railway Station or more popularly the Nampally railway station connects the city with the major cities of India. The Andhra Pradesh state owned buses connect the city with the neighboring states and cities like Chennai, Bangalore, Vijayawada and Vishakhapatnam. When to visit : Hyderabad is not an ideal city to visit during the summers (April- July) as the temperature can rise up to 42 degree Celsius during the day. Rather the best time to plan for your Hyderabad tour is during the winters i.e. from October to February. During these months, the day temperatures usually stay below 28 degree Celsius. During the night, the temperature can drop to as low as 9 degree Celsius, especially in January and December.

Culture (fairs and festivals) and traditions : People of Hyderabad are fun-loving and this spirit of theirs is clearly evident from their various festivals and fairs. Some of the important festivals celebrated in Hyderabad are : Deccan Festival : The tourism department of Andhra Pradesh arranges for the Deccan Festival every year. The festival reflects the love for art and literature among the people of Hyderabad. You can witness innumerable cultural programs on this five day festival. Qawwalis, Mushairas and Ghazals form the prime interests of this festival. Besides enjoying cultural performances, you can also please your taste buds with the nawab special cuisine. Pearls and Bangles fair : This fair is associated with the Deccan Festival and showcases beautiful creations of the prominent radiant pearls and multi-hued bangles, which are local specialties. Besides, you can also enjoy various cultural programs, take a stroll by arts and craft shops and enjoy the delicacies of the food stalls. Mrigasira Festival : Also referred to as Mrugam, this festival is celebrated in June or July. People not only enjoy a feast of local fish, but also come here to treat asthma.

People suffering from asthma participate in this local feast and swallow live fish so as to get their asthma cured. This traditional way of swallowing live fish is noted for having herbal properties. Lumbini Festival : The Nagarjunasagar dam in Hyderabad hosts the Lumbini Festival every year. The festival derived its name “Lumbini” from the place Lumbini; the birth place of Lord Buddha. This three day long festival is celebrated to honor the rich culture and heritage of Buddhism. Points of interest (places to visit) Some of the major points of interest in Hyderabad are as follows: Birla Planetarium and Science Museum : Located at Naubat Road, NT Ramarao inaugurated this museum in 1985. Today, it stands as one of the advanced planetariums of India. Charminar : A remarkable combination of Indo-Islamic architecture, Charminar is a must visit attraction on your Hyderabad tour. Built in reminiscence of the Qutub Shahi dynasty, this noted structure has an average height and width of 56 meters and 30 meters respectively. Chowmahalla Palace : Located close to Charminar, this palace was once home to the Asif Jahi dynasty.

Noted for its elegance and unique style, this palace is now open to selected corporates and individuals for hosting cultural evenings, receptions and dinner parties. Falaknuma Palace : Located 5 kilometers south of Charminar, the Falaknuma Palace was built by Nawab Vikar-ul-Umra and has now been transformed into a luxury hotel. The palace houses a rare combination of Tudor and Italian and architecture. The stained glass windows of this palace throw a gamut of color into the rooms. Golconda Fort : Established in the 20th century, the Golconda Fort was founded by the Kakatias. It was later on renovated with granite walls and ramparts by the Qutub Sahi kings. Nizam’s Museum : Located in Purana Haveli, this museum is only two kilometers away from Charminar. In 1750, Hyderabad’s second Nizam acquired a palace and converted it into a museum. Accommodation : When you are planning for a vacation, the first thing you would perhaps eye on is perfect relaxation. And for a perfect relaxation, you need to plan your stay at a comfortable hotel as well.

If you don’t mind spending on your tour and looking for some luxurious options then The Park-Hyderabad, Taj Falaknuma Palace, Trident Hyderabad, The Westin Hyderabad Mindspace and Taj Krishna. Budget travelers too can have their equal share of joy at stay options like Aditya Hometel, Hotel Swagath Grand, Walnut Budget Hotel and Hotel Geetanjali. Hyderabad sites - The Hyderabad city. Hyderabad sites ( this page is a part of History of Osmania University Alumni site) HYDERABAD A BIRD'S EYE VIEW. Hyderabad (pronounced /ˈhaɪdərəbɑːd/ or /ˈhaɪdrəbæd/ in English, Telugu: హైదరాబాద్ pronunciation, (Urdu: حیدراباد), once known as Bhagyanagar (City of Fortune), is the capital city and most populous city of the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh. The city of Hyderabad has an estimated population of about 7 million. The city has thus been classified as an A-1 status city joining the list of other A-1 cities such as Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata, Chennai and Bangalore.

Hyderabad is known for its rich history, culture and architecture representing its unique character as a meeting point for North and South India, and also its multilingual culture, both geographically, culturally and intellectually. Also known as The City of Nizams and The City of Pearls, Hyderabad is today one of the fast developing cities in the country and a modern hub of Information Technology, ITES and Biotechnology. Hyderabad has become a preferred conference venue in India, with many conferences and meetings taking place in the city. The city is also known to be a sporting destination with many national and international games conducted here. The people here are called Hyderabadis. The city is regarded as a blend of traditionality with modernity. cyber gate way hitech city Raheja mind scape - hi tech city In 1589, the 5th ruler of the Qutub Shah Dynasty, Muhammad Quli Qutub Shah constructed a new capital, moving the capital from Golconda to Hyderabad, From that time it maintained prosperity as the centre of the Qutub Shah Dynasty until the late 17th century.

photo of charminar 70 years back charminar today Hyderabad city seen from Charminar After the Mugaloid emperor Aurangzeb conquered Golconda in 1687, Mecca Masjid were repaired and the city wall was built. Mecca Masjid 100 years back macca masjid now After the 18th century it lived on as the stronghold of Deccan control of the Nizam family that was established by Asaf Jah . The town is constructed on the south shore of the Musi river. The city walls form an inverted triangle. Their construction was begun by the last Mugaloid ruler Mubaliz Khan and completed by Nizam ul-Mulk. Buildings dating back to the Qutb Shah period include Chaar Minar at the crossing of the centre of Hyderabad, Jama Masjid at its north-east built in 1597, a hospital Dar ul-Shifa is situated to the northeast of Jama Masjid and Mecca Masjid, whose construction started in 1614 and was completed by the Mugalid emperor Aurangzeb, located to the south-east of Chahar Minar.

In the Qutb Shah period, there were no city walls in Hyderabad. A bridge called Purana Pool was built where a road from Golconda in the west area meets the Musi river, and if one follows the road to the east, one can reach Chaar Minar. The northwest area of Chaar Minar became a palace complex where many palace buildings and gardens could be seen, but currently there is no trace of them. Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh Andhra Pradesh Disclaimer Close Disclaimer: All efforts have been made to make this image accurate. However Compare Infobase Limited and its directors do not own any responsibility for the correctness or authencity of the same. About Hyderabad Also dubbed as the City of Pearls and Cyberabad, Hyderabad is a major tourist destination in India. Presently, it is the twin capital of the states of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh in India. But as proposed by the Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, N. Chandrababu Naidu, Andhra will soon have a new capital in the Vijaywada region. Set up in 1591, the city is one of the major metropolitan cities of the country.

It is famous for its IT industry, biopharmaceutical sector, and the Telugu film industry. Hyderabad represents a confluence of the old and the new - it is known the world over for its 400-year-old Charminar as well as for its pearls, bangles, silks, IT companies and mouth-watering cuisine. Though a cosmopolitan city, it has retained its glorious past. Hyderabad is home to people from diverse cultures and traditions. History The history of Hyderabad goes back to the period when Quli Qutub Shah seized power from the Bahamani Kingdom in 1512 and established the city of Golconda and the Qutub Shahi dynasty. However, lack of water supplies and frequent epidemics like plague and cholera forced Mohammed, the fifth Quli Qutub Shahi to found a new city and thus Hyderabad was founded. Asaf Jah-I proclaimed himself the Nizam and established independent rule of the Deccan as the Mughal Empire started to crumble.

In 1798, under the subsidiary alliance agreement signed between the Nizam and the British East India Company, the territory north of the present-day Hussain Sagar Lake was established as a cantonment. It came to be known as Secunderabad. Successive Nizams of the Asaf Jah dynasty ruled it until the state was merged into the Indian Union in 1948. Geography Located at an altitude of 536 metres or 1,607 feet over sea surface, the mean summer temperature in Hyderabad fluctuates between a maximum of 40 degrees celsius and a minimum temperature of around 22 degrees celsius. Winter temperatures range between a maximum of around 22 degree celsius and a minimum of around 12 degrees celsius. You may need to wear light woolens during early mornings and late evenings. It forms a part of the Deccan Plateau. Banjara Hills is the tallest point in the city. The city of Hyderabad is famous for its distinct landscape and houses a number of lakes including Hussain Sagar, Himayat Sagar, Osman Sagar, Shamirpet Lake, and Saroornagar Lake.

The principal river passing through the city is the Musi River which has its source at the Anantagiri Hills. The city has a mostly warm and arid climate round the year. Area of Hyderabad The city covers a total area of 650 sq km or 250 sq miles. Population of Hyderabad As per census 2011, the population of the city is 6,809,970. Economy of Hyderabad The economy of the city is dependent on industries like tourism, information technology, banking and finance, pearl culture, silk, biopharmaceuticals, and real estate. Hyderabad is a business hub. It is competing with Bangalore for the title of the cyber capital of India and is already sometimes mentioned as Cyberabad. Many top-notch Indian and multinational software firms have set up shop in Hyderabad. The state government is offering many sops to the IT companies. Hyderabad is home to the Telugu film industry. The other major business sectors in the city include pearls, glass manufacturing, textiles, railway coaches, paper products, silverware, saris, paintings and artifacts, handicrafts, bangles and pharmaceuticals.

How to reach Hyderabad By Air: Hyderabad is well connected to various parts of India as well as foreign countries. The Hyderabad airport at Begumpet provides connectivity to all major destinations in India, as well as flights to Middle East, Southeast Asia, Europe, North America and other places. A new airport is being constructed at Shamsabad in the outskirts of Hyderabad. Click here for Hyderabad Flight Schedule By Rail:Hyderabad is connected by rail to Bangalore , Chennai and all other major Indian cities. There are three railway stations in Hyderabad - Hyderabad Railway Station (Nampally), Secunderabad Railway Station and Kachiguda Railway Station By Road: Hyderabad is well connected to other major Indian cities like Bangalore, Mumbai , Nagpur , Warangal , Pune among others by National Highways. The city shall be a part of the North-South Corridor. Getting Around in Hyderabad Getting around in Hyderabad is very easy. Auto rickshaws are by far the easiest and most economical mode of transport. Taxis are another option. There are two types of city bus services available in Hyderabad. The APSRTC (Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation) operates two kinds of buses - the ordinary road transport corporation buses and the Metro Liners in the city.

Hyderabad has the Multi-Modal Transport System (MMTS) connecting Serilingampally with Nampally on one route and Falaknuma via Secunderabad on another. It is also scheduled to develop a Metro system. Cuisine Hyderabadi cuisine incorporates Mughal, traditional Andhra and Telangana influences. Hyderabadis love to relish their food. In terms of popularity, Hyderabadi Biryani wins hands down. Besides the Biryani, Pheni and Haleem are also popular dishes. Apart from this, Hyderabadis also swear by 'Irani chai' and 'Osmania biscuit'. Shopping If you are game for shopping, Hyderabad will not let you down. Here you can shop for world famous pearls, jewellery, bangles, traditional arts & crafts, handicrafts, sarees, clothes from reputed international brands, what name you! The main shopping areas comprise Basheerbagh, Abids and Nampally. Other favorite haunts are Begum Bazaar (for brassware), Laad Bazaar (for diamonds, pearls, bangles and precious metals), Sultan Bazar and Mahatma Gandhi Road. Begum Bazar is the largest market in the city.

If these are not enough, you can also rummage through Ameerpet, Himayatnagar, Begumpet, Somajiguda and Punjagutta. Besides, for the benefit of toursists, Andhra Pradesh Tourism has opened souvenir and handicraft shops christened 'Gnapika'. To sum up Hyderabad has something for everybody. It is a city, which is marching ahead to the future, while retaining its historical roots. If you are not stumped by the flavours of Hyderabadi cuisine, its grandiose monuments will floor you. It is a city that pulsates with life and is sure to make you come back for more. Last Updated on : September 11, 2014 Hyderabad - Wikiquote Hyderabad Jump to: navigation , search Modern Hyderabad Hyderabad (i/ˈhaɪdərəˌbæd/ HY-dər-ə-bad; often /ˈhaɪdrəˌbæd/) is the capital and largest city of the southern Indian state of Andhra Pradesh . It the fourth most populous city and sixth most populous urban agglomeration in India . Contents Asaf Jah I , Nizam of Hyderabad .

Sushil Rao:...Over the next few decades, while Golconda continued to exist, Hyderabad, with Charminar as its centrepiece, became the new hub. It was 25km away from Golconda . It was in 1591 that Hyderabad was founded by Mohd Quli Qutub Shah , the fifth king of the Quli Qutub Shah dynasty , based in Golconda fort . The Shah decided to build a new city on the banks of the Musi river because Golconda posed a problem of drinking water and raging epidemics . Over the next few decades, while Golconda continued to exist, Hyderabad, with Charminar as its centrepiece, became the new hub. It [is] 25km away from Golconda. Sushil Rao, in Testing time again for the Pearl of Deccan (11 December 2009) . In 1591, the fifth Qutb Shahi Sultan of Golconda, Mohammad Quli (r.1580-1612) built a city as ‘a replica of heaven ’. He named it Bhagnagar, after his beloved Bhagmati.

In 1983, the German architect Jan Pieper quoted chapter and verse to argue that the city was indeed an architectural metaphor for the Quranic heaven . Narendra Luther , in Bridging two cultures Through out its 420-year-old history , Hyderabad has been irresistible for those who coveted it, and they ended up either taking the city by force or fighting till end for control. The "city of pearls" is now going through yet another challenge that has ended up as a new chapter in its chequered history. Sushil Rao in "Testing time again for the Pearl of Deccan (11 December 2009)". It was in 1769 that Hyderabad got preeminence after Nizam Ali Khan Asaf Jah-II, the second ruler of the dynasty, made it the capital of his kingdom instead of Aurangabad. By then, two bloody battles had been fought for Hyderabad. Sushil Rao in "Testing time again for the Pearl of Deccan (11 December 2009)". In [[British India, the Asaf Jahis continued to rule Hyderabad.

After India got independence on August 15, 1947 , the last Nizam , Mir Osman Ali Khan , refused to merge with India , opting instead to remain independent or merge with Pakistan . Home minister Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel got Indian Army to take control of Hyderabad. With the Indian Army having reached Secunderabad , the Nizam saw it prudent to sign the instrument of accession . Sushil Rao in "Testing time again for the Pearl of Deccan (11 December 2009)". While Hyderabad was founded on love, Secunderabad was an offspring of coercive diplomacy. Hyderabad was a quintessential Oriental city renowned for its planning; Secunderabad was a cantonment which grew into a replica of an English town. Narendra Luther , in "Bridging two cultures". From the defence point of view it would give safety to the Central Government. It is equidistant from all parts of India. It would give satisfaction to the South Indian people that their Government is sometimes with them. The Government may remain in Delhi during winter months and during other months it can stay in Hyderabad. Hyderabad has all the amenities which Delhi has and it is a far better City than Delhi.

It has all the grandeur which Delhi has. Buildings are going cheap and they are really beautiful buildings, far superior to those in Delhi. They are all on sale. The only thing that is wanting is a Parliament House which the Government of India can easily build. It is a place in which Parliament can sit all the year round and work, which it cannot do in Delhi. I do not see what objection there can be in making Hyderabad a second capital of India. It should be done right now while we are reorganising the States. An African Indian Community in Hyderabad: Siddi Identity, Its Maintenance ...[ edit ] A view of Mecca Masjid constructed during the Qutb Shahi and Mughal rule in Hyderabad ...400 years of Hyderabad’s history ...rich and diverse...is a young city...However, megalithic circle tombs and stone implements excavated near Secunderabad are evidence of an earlier civilization . In P.1. Golconda from which Hyderabad sprang has no recorded history until king Ganapati, the Kakatiya King built a fort on the pick of the rocky mountains. In P.1.

Bhagmati was so overwhelmed by Mohammad Quli ’s love that she immediately converted to Islam and assumed the Muslim name Hyder Mahal. Mohammad Quli, not to be outdone, renamed his city Hyderabad or the ‘city of Hyder’. During Qutub Shahi dynasty, the city witnessed its golden age of architecture over-shadowing the city of Golconda. In p. 3. Qutub Shahi dynasty declined...gave way to invading Mughals in 1687,...which marked the end of a great epoch in the history of South India.... Chin Qilich Khan , one of Mughal’s ablest generals, ...appointed the Viceroy of the Deccan with the title “Nizam-ul-Mulk" (Regulator of the Realm).... He rebelled against the Mughals and was victorious on 16 January 1725... and with the city as the capital ruled his vast dominions. S.Ravi , p. 3.

...Mughal sovereign, Muhammad Shah ...conferred on the Nizam the title of Asif Jha after making peace with him...The rule of Asif Jha I , that lasted for a quarter of a century, once again brought to Hyderabad an era of prosperity and grandeur ...The dynastic rule begun by the first Asif Jha lasted right up to 1948, when Hyderabad state merged with the Indian Union ... rulers of the Asif Jha dynasty (or more popularly known as the Nizam dynasty contributed to the growth of Hyderabad economically and culturally. S. Ravi, in p. 3-4. Kings of the Nizam dynasty... indulged their fantasies on an extraordinary extent. For instance, the ninth Nizam of Hyderabad, Mahbub Ali, Asif Jha VI (1869-1911) is reputed to have never repeatedly worn a dress. It is said that his wardrobe filled an entire wing of the palace and stood two story’s high. S. Ravi, in p. 4.

...an ancient culture and civilization ...This cosmopolitan city is also known as the city of minarets due to the presence of several mosques displaying huge minarets. Art, architecture, groups of people and religions form a unique blend in Hyderabad. Over the centuries this variety evolved into a great cultural landscape. In P.1. Though the Nizams who came after Asif Jha I still were wealthy, they were not capable administrators and policy-makers like the first Nizam. So, they were slowly subordinated by the growing French and British powers on the peninsula . S. Ravi, in p. 4. Charminar , the four towered structure standing at the intersection of the four main streets of the city, like the Eiffel Tower of Paris , the Statue of Liberty in New York , or West Minister Abbey in London .. In P.1. Charminar , had been built in 1589 by Mohammad-Quli Qutab Shah, the king whose seat was Golconda Fort some fifteen miles (from Hyderabad City), to commemorate the spot where he caught his first glimpse of Bhagmati, the Hindu girl who captured his heart and in time became his queen . Lynton and Rajan, in p.

1. During the time of Nizam Osman Ali Khan (1911-1956), Charminar even figured on the then Hyderabad Rupee because such kind of architecture was unknown in southern India until this time...Mosques and minarets, forts and palaces of great beauty exists side by side with colleges and art galleries, public gardens and administrative buildings offering thereby a rare visual variety to please even the most demanding of visitors. In p. 1. Momentous day for lovers of freedom, democracy[ edit ] General El Edroos (at right) offers his surrender of the Hyderabad State Forces to Major General (later General and Army Chief) Joyanto Nath Chaudhuri at Secunderabad . Ye jung hai jung-e-azadi, azadi ke parcham ke tale.. It is a war , the war of independence , of the myriad souls .....

This marching song penned by Hyderabad's poet, Maqdoom Mohiuddin , inspired many a young lover of freedom to take a plunge into the struggle for the liberation of Hyderabad State, quoted by K.Venkateshwarlu, in Momentous day for lovers of freedom, democracy (17 September 2004) Far from gracefully accepting the public mood against his autocratic rule , the Nizam went on to declare Hyderabad an independent state , pompously claimed to unfurl the Asafia flag on the Red Fort , threatened to accede the State to Pakistan , sent an emissary to Britain and even sought UN intervention. Yet, it took just four days and 13 hours, beginning September 13, 1948, for the Indian Army to tame the "mighty" Nizam's Army. His Exalted Highness, Lt.

Gen Muzaffar-ul Mulk Wal Mumalik Nizam-ul-Mulk, Nizam-ud-Dowla, Nawab Sir Mir Osman Ali Khan Bahadur, the Faithful Ally of the British , Nizam of Hyderabad, was arguably one of the richest men in the world , nearly bowing with a traditional " namaste " before the redoubtable first Indian Union Home Minister, Sardar Vallabhai Patel , at the Begumpet Airport . The Nizam paid for his mistakes. He remained stubborn not accepting any of the conciliatory efforts made by Jawaharlal Nehru . He was offered full protection and 40 per cent representation to Muslims in the constitution of a responsible government, though their population was 12 per cent. Exhausting all options, the Nehru Government sent the army. Burgula Narsinga Rao. City environment[ edit ] M. A. Nayeem: The Asaf Jahi architecture, including palaces, tombs and mosques, belonging to Kings and nobles, are good examples of a mixture of the Mughal and European art styles... J. N.

Vohra:The "newest’ of the official residences of the Indian President , Rashtrapati Nilayam at Secunderabad , came into being as a result of India’s Independence... Mohan Kodarkar:Constructed in 1562 and situated between the twin cities of Hyderabad and Secunderabad... the almost 450 years old lake Hussainsagar is an engineering marvel and a symbol of traditional wisdom of water conservation in this semi-arid region of peninsular India ... Laadbazar known for glass embedded bangles. HITEC city, the hub of information technology companies The present Hyderabad district came into existence in August 1978 with total geographic area of 199.6 square kilometers and covers the twin cities of Hyderabad and Secunderabad . Hyderabad has grown into a cosmopolitan city largely due to Central government and defence establishments. In its most recent phase of growth, the IT boom galvanised Hyderabad's outskirts into a major international hub. Apart from AP 's two other regions, Rayalaseema and coastal Andhra , many people from other parts of India and abroad, attracted by Hyderabad's resources, climate and peaceful environment, have made its home.

Sushil Rao in "Testing time environemntfor the Pearl of Deccan (11 December 2009)". The discovery of [such] archaeological evidences shows that the history of the city and environs goes much beyond Kakatiya and Qutb Shahi periods. The burial spot was on a five-acre patta land in Sy. No.124, in the possession of B. Mallaiah of the same village in Hayathnagar mandal of Ranga Reddy district, just off the Hyderabad-Vijaywada highway. On the face of it, the site was datable to 500 B.C, but unless systematic excavations were carried out, further details would not be known. P. Chenna Reddy , Director of Archaeology and Museums, in Iron Age burial site discovered (10 September 2008) .

The Hyderabadi art and architecture of the 18th and 19th Centuries is eclectic which imbibes the Mughal cultural traits and traditions on the one hand and borrows freely from the Western art traditions on the other, which had come into vogue in Hyderabad after the construction of the British Residency in 1806 A.D. The Hyderabadi artists, however, did not fail to draw inspiration from their own soil, may it be architecture, painting, dress and ornaments for which the city was famous. M. A. Nayeem, in The Splendour Of Hyderabad — The last Phase of an Oriental Culture: (1591-1948 A.D.) quoted in Hyderabad through the ages, {28 May 2002) . The Asaf Jahi architecture, including palaces, tombs and mosques, belonging to Kings and nobles, are good examples of a mixture of the Mughal and European art styles. Besides the Residency building, there are a number of churches in the city, which are built in typical British style of architecture . M. A.

Nayeem, in The Splendour Of Hyderabad — The last Phase of an Oriental Culture: (1591-1948 A.D.) quoted in "Hyderabad through the ages, {28 May 2002)". The "newest’ of the official residences of the Indian President , Rashtrapati Nilayam at Secunderabad , came into being as a result of India’s Independence. In the first decade of freedom, the separatist tendencies evinced by some political organisations in South India caused concern to the founding fathers of the young republic. Among the various slogans of the separatists, one was that the President of the Indian Republic had all his official residences in north India. As such in 1955, the then President, Dr Rajendra Prasad , decided that there must be an official residence in South India, so that during his visits to the South, the local populace doesn’t feel that he comes as a "guest" to the various Raj Bhavans. Since the President was likely to spend only six to eight weeks every year in South India, a small edifice was to be chosen, so that the annual upkeep could be kept at the minimum. J. N.

Vohra, in Palaces of the President (8 July 2007) . The mansion chosen by President Rajendra Prasad in 1956 had been originally built by the British in 1870 as the summer resort for the British Resident to Hyderabad state, who found the town cooler than the nearby cantonment of Secunderabad . This building with the total land area of 101 acres, is a single-storeyd edifice, with a dining hall, durbar hall, morning room and other ceremonial halls. There are 16 rooms for the President and his staff. There is also a visitors’ annexe which can accommodate more than 150 people. J. N. Vohra, in "Palaces of the President (8 July 2007)". Constructed in 1562 and situated between the twin cities of Hyderabad and Secunderabad... the almost 450 years old lake Hussainsagar is an engineering marvel and a symbol of traditional wisdom of water conservation in this semi-arid region of peninsular India ...In recent years the lake has emerged as the major recreational centre and ecological land mark on the map of the country.

Mohan Kodarkar, in Implementing the Ecosystem Approach to Preserve the Ecological Integrity of Urban Lakes The Case of Lake Hussainsagar, Hyderabad, India Starting with the period prior to the city's birth in 1591, Hyderabad, [is] one of contemporary India's most important cities. The city has a fascinating march from Bhagnagar to Hyderabad to 'Cyberabad', has evolved unique composite culture , which has continued to attract people since its founding by its poet-builder. Narendra Luther , in Hyderabad (OIP): A Biography (Revised and Updated Edition) (31 January 2013) , Preview. Hyderabad is a historic beautiful City and is the Capital of [[w:Andhra Pradesh|Andhra Pradesh. The city is called “Pearl City” and famous for its twinkling pearls and glass embedded bangles . The city was founded during Qutub Shahi dynasty and was called Bhagyanagar. The present Hyderabad district came into existence in August 1978 with total geographic area of 199.6 square kilometers and covers the twin cities of Hyderabad and Secunderabad. Hyderabad being the State Capital is highly developed in all aspects.

It is situated at an altitude of 536 metres and offers pleasant weather conditions. The total geographical area of the District is 199.60 square kilometers. Profile, in "Industrial profile Hyderabad district." The Hyderabad development area is divided into two parts. The first part is the incorporated area of the Municipal Corporation of Hyderabad-Secunderabad and the Cantonement area. The second part is the peripheral area excluding the incorporated area in the Hyderabad development area. M. Pratap Rao, in Planning for Metropolitan Cities: A Suggestive Approach (1 January 1990) , p. 34. The Old City or shall we say the real Hyderabad? The part of town that has all the monuments that we are all so proud of, all the wares that we are so famous for, and all the folks that make us so unique! In Hyderabad The decision to bifurcate the state has cleared the air, bringing in stability in the market. But now there is clarity that second capital is also going to function from Hyderabad and this is going to be value addition for real estate market. Four hundred years ago what is Hyderabad city was an area covered with granite stone hills, forest and a river flowing through.

Press Reporter’s Guild, Hyderabad, in p. 11. Misfortune befell the city with the conquest of the Deccan by the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb in 1687. The headquarters of the Deccan then shifted to Aurangabad under the Mughal rule . In 1763, the Nizam shifted the headquarters to Hyderabad and again the city flourished. Press Reporter’s Guild, Hyderabad p. 11. In the year 1802, Nawab Mir Alam built a reservoir. Construction was supervised by an Englishman, Mr. Russel. Water from the Mir Alam tank was channeled to the Purani Haveli Palace and others. Later was supplied to the public. Press Reporter’s Guild, Hyderabad p. 11 The British Residency was established on the northern banks of the Musi River now referred to as Secunderabad and the gap between Hyderabad and Secunderabad gradually filled with residences and industry. The Faluknama Palace stands majestically on the crest of a hill and is reached by a small winding road... ...currency known as Halisika minted in Hyderabad was minted.

The British Residency was established on the northern banks of the Musi River now referred to as Secunderabad and the gap between Hyderabad and Secunderabad gradually filled with residences and industry. Press Reporter’s Guild, Hyderabad, in p. 11. The Falaknuma Palace stands majestically on the crest of a hill and is reached by a small winding road. It was built at a cost of rupees thirty-five lakhs by the late Sir Vigar-ul-Ulema and bought by the Nizam in 1897. The Nizam VI lived and died in the palace. Successive viceroys and the last Governor General of India, C. Rajagopalachari . Viola Bergthold Wiebe, Marilyn Wiebe Dodge, in p. 19. In September of 1908, the usually quiet Musi river rose in fury and stuck the city with large scale destruction. Sir M.Vishveswarayya together with Ali Nawz Jung proposed damming the river on its two tributaries, the Musi and the Easi and channeling it as it passed through the city.

Two reservoirs were thus formed in 1922 and 1927 and the new Hyderabad Water Works resulted. Press Reporter’s Guild, Hyderabad p. 11. In the Deccan, a Muslim State ruled by H.E.H. the Nizam, special stamps and currency known as Halisika minted in Hyderabad was minted. Press Reporter’s Guild, Hyderabad p. 11. The first mint in Hyderabad was established at the old royal palace, Sultan Shah, in 1803. Almost a hundred years later, the mint was modernized and shifted to Saifabad. Press Reporter’s Guild, Hyderabad p. 11. The first Hali coins bearing the Charminar motif were silver rupee and four anna coins in 1904-1905. Nickle coinage for Hali came into vogue in 1919, when the round one-anna piece was minted. Press Reporter’s Guild, Hyderabad p. 11.

Question: Nicknamed the City of Pearls, what is the capital of the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh?
Answer: HYDERABAD